Kia Optima vs Toyota Corolla
For 2005–2021 models, the Toyota Corolla has 15.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 47.2 for the Kia Optima. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2005–2021), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Kia Optima
47.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
3.1× the Toyota Corolla’s rate
- Complaints
- 6,754
- Sold
- 1,431,194
- Recall campaigns
- 18
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2011, 2013 and 2015–2016. Fewest: 2017–2019 and 2021. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings)
Typically around 100,000 mi
-
Oil consumption and leaks
Typically around 88,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 89,000 mi
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 80,000 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 62,800 mi
Toyota Corolla
15.0 complaints per 10,000 sold
68% fewer than the Kia Optima
- Complaints
- 8,011
- Sold
- 5,323,693
- Recall campaigns
- 34
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 2
Most complaints: 2005 and 2009–2011. Fewest: 2015 and 2017–2018. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 69,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 28,394 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 54,650 mi
-
Master cylinder and booster
Typically around 20,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 1,700 mi · repair $750–$2,230
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Kia Optima or the Toyota Corolla?
For 2005–2021 models, the Toyota Corolla has 15.0 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Kia Optima has 47.2, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Kia Optima?
The most-reported problem on the Kia Optima is internal engine (bearings, pistons, rings), typically around 100,000 miles.
What is the most common problem on the Toyota Corolla?
The most-reported problem on the Toyota Corolla is airbags, seatbelts and restraints, typically around 69,000 miles.
Which Kia Optima and Toyota Corolla years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Kia Optima: 2011, 2013 and 2015–2016; Toyota Corolla: 2005 and 2009–2011.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.